After a month-long sojourn in Thailand, the revered relics of Buddha, accompanied by those of his esteemed disciples Arahant Sariputta and Maha Moggallana, are set to make their return to Bharat, heralded by full State honours. Thailand’s Ministry of Culture reported an astounding turnout of over four million devotees who paid homage to these sacred relics during their stay in the country.
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Leading the delegation accompanying the relics back to Bharat is LAHDC-Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council Chairman Tashi Gyalson, alongside numerous monks representing both the Theravada and Mahayana traditions.
The relics are scheduled to arrive at Air Force Station Palam, Technical Area, later today, where they will be ceremoniously received by Minister of State for External Affairs, Meenakshi Lekhi, in a tribute befitting their sacred significance.
The recent exposition of the relics in Thailand captivated hearts, with scenes of winding queues of devotees making offerings becoming a common sight in every city visited during the procession.
Jointly organised by the Indian Culture Ministry and the International Buddhist Confederation or IBC, the journey spanned various cities of Thailand, commencing from New Delhi on February 22 and culminating on March 19.
The inauguration of the prayers was marked by grandeur, with His Majesty Vajiralongkorn, the King of Thailand, and his Queen performing the rituals at the central exhibition park of each city.
The relics arrived in Bangkok on February 22, accompanied by an official delegation led by Bihar Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Virendra Kumar.
Throughout the exposition, Indian monks and academicians from various Indian universities graced each location, enriching the spiritual experience for all attendees.
This historic journey not only strengthens the spiritual bond between Bharat and Thailand but also serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of Buddhism in Asia and the significance of Bharat’s soft power on the global stage.
